Amherst College, founded in 1821 in Amherst, Massachusetts, is a private liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and historic campus. Initially established as a men's college, it became coeducational in 1975 and has since been dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive community. With an enrollment of around 1,800 students, Amherst is part of the Five College Consortium, allowing students to take classes at nearby institutions such as Smith, Mount Holyoke, Hampshire, and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
What sets Amherst College apart is its commitment to an open curriculum, which provides students the freedom to design their course of study without a core curriculum. This approach encourages academic exploration and interdisciplinary learning, supported by a favorable student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 7:1. The college's emphasis on undergraduate teaching is reflected in its faculty, who are not only leaders in their fields but are also deeply invested in mentoring students. This personalized educational experience fosters a tight-knit community where intellectual curiosity is highly valued.
Academics at Amherst are distinguished by the college's strong programs in fields such as economics, political science, neuroscience, and English. The college is renowned for its robust writing program, which prepares students for success across various disciplines. Additionally, Amherst's commitment to undergraduate research provides students with opportunities to engage in meaningful projects alongside faculty members, often leading to published work and presentations at conferences. The college's library system, including the Frost Library, supports academic endeavors with extensive resources and special collections.
Despite its many strengths, Amherst College faces challenges, particularly regarding campus diversity and inclusion. While the college has made strides in increasing the diversity of its student body, with over 45% of students identifying as students of color, there is ongoing work to ensure that all students feel welcomed and supported. Furthermore, the rural location of Amherst can be both a draw and a drawback, as it offers a peaceful setting for study but may feel isolating for those accustomed to urban environments. Housing shortages have also been a concern in recent years, with limited on-campus accommodations sometimes pushing students to find off-campus housing.
